Like so many couples before them, Lindsay Lohan and Samantha Ronson’s notorious public squabbles are being attributed to a rash of recent money troubles;or more specifically, Lindsay’s lack of cash flow and Sam’s inability to support the former Mean Girls’ extravagant Hollywood lifestyle.

According to friends of pair, Lindsay’s overspending is putting additional strain on the ladies’ already volatile relationship.

“Lindsay is spending like crazy!” a friend of the actress blabbed to The NY Daily News on Monday. “She’s living on credit right now. She has no cash. The problem is, the money being spent is mostly Sam’s because Lindsay doesn’t really have any of her own at the moment; she’s really taken on the ‘man’ role in their romance. Sam really thinks Lindsay needs to learn how to become a recessionista and manage her money better.”

A second pal further reveals: “Lindsay’s money situation has never been great, but it’s only gotten worse over the last month. For every dollar she makes, she spends double. Her personal appearance fees are literally the only thing keeping her afloat. But here’s the rub: Because of her explosive relationship with Sam, she’s unable to get the type of cash she’s used to. The negative press and constant appearance cancellations are hurting her pocketbook.”

Ironically, in the April issue of Nylon, Lohan speaks frankly about her bleak economic situation.

“It’s scary when you realize, ‘Oh my God, I’m not working. And I have a house to pay for now.”

Lindsay has not starred in a film since the 2007 box office stinker, I Know Who Killed Me.